Remember: the advice on this page is given by experts. However, it is only meant to point you in the right direction. There is no substitute for taking your pet along to see a good Vet
Wayne Hockenhull, aged 38, is SOS's celebrity vet! Wayne has worked in many parts of the UK before moving to Spain two years ago with his wife and two small daughters to enjoy a better quality of life. Wayne used to appear on Channel 4's Big Breakfast in the Keith Chegwin animal spot. He enjoys helping local animal charities, and will put the spotlight on an animal topic each month in Wayne's World, as well as answering email enquiries. It should be a fascinating insight into the life of a Vet.
Wayne can be contacted on 652 302 985 or 662 627 028
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February – Wayne's advice
We are rapidly heading towards one of the most dangerous times of the year for our dogs – and although cats are cannier, even they are at risk. One of the most dangerous natural enemies of dogs is about to make its presence felt in our gardens and surrounding countryside. And much the best way to deal with it is to make sure sure that you avoid it at all costs.
The processionary pine caterpillar is found in the tops of pine trees; trees which are protected here in Spain so if you have one in your garden you are not supposed to cut it down. The caterpillars feast on their host tree, and appear in February, March and April when they come down from the tree and form a long line in search of other trees and more food.
So DON'T take your dog into pine forests while the risk exists. If you spot white, candy floss like cocoons in the branches beat a hasty retreat.
The caterpillar looks innocuous enough but it can be DEADLY. If your dog should sniff at one he is in serious danger. And even if he licks an area where the caterpillars have previously been he is at risk because they will have left behind the venom in the tiny hairs that they have shed. Key signs that your dog is in serious trouble are frothing at the mouth and a swollen, blackening tongue. You must go to the vet IMMEDIATELY... do not for one minute think you can treat this at home, because you have a potentially life and death situation on your hands. Some dogs who survive end up losing part of their tongues and jaw.
Humans can be affected too. People who have tried to destroy nests have not realised that the poisonous hairs become airborne... they brush your skin and leave you with severe itching,and inflammation which, fortunately is merely very unpleasant as opposed to life threatening. So watch out for curious kids. Councils in Spain are aware of the problem and will help. If you have a problem in your garden or near your home contact SEPRONA, the environmental branch of the Guardia Civil, on 062 or call in at your town hall.
The Vet in a Van project will soon be underway so more on that soon. The project was developed by CHAIN, who, along with the other charities involved with animals, know just how important animal neutering is if we are to cut the number of strays. Here at SOS the refuge had a perfect illustration of just how important this work is. Two litters of pointer cross puppies – clearly from the same mother – were dumped at the gates with just a six month gap between them. That was EIGHTEEN puppies in all. The second lot were left when they were even younger and had to be carefully fed at the home of refuge director Tony Byford. Luckily homes have been found for some – but we need to find the owner so we can spay the puppies' mother – otherwise, no doubt, we will have 18 more in 2010.
Parvo virus is a constant problem so make sure your vaccines are up to date. The virus can survive up to 6 months and can have a high death rate. It is highly contagious, so if you contact a rescue centre about taking in a dog, remember they have to protect the animals in their shelter. Taking in a stray dog that could be incubating parvo is a big worry for them and could be disastrous for the other animals.KEEP THOSE VACCINES UP TO DATE.
Other useful links to pet problems and advice
Coming soon.....
